Maile (Alyxia stellata) is a highly regarded native vine in Hawai‘i for its fragrance and use in lei and ceremony. It is one of the most precious lei to give or receive. Growing demand for lei, changes in land stewardship, the introduction of ornamental (and invasive) species, perhaps the absence of fruit eating and seed spreading native birds, and over harvesting have all led to a decline in maile groves.

Today, a few farmers grow and steward native maile varieties throughout Hawai‘i. Responsibly harvesting maile ensures it is plentiful for the next generation. Always ask for permission from the place and caretaker. Anecdotally, the decline of maile groves has coincided with the decline of the ‘alalā (the native Hawaiian crow). A frugivore, the ‘alalā ate understory native fruit, such as maile, spreading the seed throughout the forest. Today, the ‘alalā has been extinct in the wild for many years, but they are being raised in captivity and have been reintroduced to the wild with high hopes for their reestablishment. The importance of our native forest birds and our mindful maile harvest practices demonstrate both the interconnectedness of our Hawaiian forest as well as what we can do to help it to grow.

The kukui tree, its flowers, leaves, and nuts are symbolic of enlightenment, leadership, knowledge, wisdom and education. The nuts are often strung into lei. They are rich in oil. When strung together they can also be burned to function as a torch or candle. In this print the kukui nut cords stretch up and down. When lit, they burn from one to the next.

Each nut is both a seed and a light. The burning of the nuts one by one symbolizes the passing of knowledge and light from past to future generations in an endless continuum. Wise leaders, educators and loved ones share that light and pass it onto us in turn that we may do the same for the next generation. The symbol of Hawaiian King Kalakaua's reign was ke kukuioiwikauikaua: the kukui torch that burns at mid-day. Inspired by the monarchy era, the symmetry, color palette, and feeling of this pattern are both a nod to Victorian, quilt, and kapa design work as well as a Hawaiian sensibility and depth of meaning.

The Hawaiian Hawk, or 'Io, is a bird of great cultural and ecological significance in Hawai'i. Revered as a symbol of the ali'i (Hawaiian royalty). The 'Io embodies power, strength, and nobility. In traditional stories and legends, it acts as a messenger and is the aumakua (guardian spirit) of certain families.

Ecologically, the 'Io is a key apex predator, maintaining the balance of its ecosystem by preying on smaller animals and invasive species. Once found throughout the Hawaiian Islands, today ‘io is now only found on Hawai'i Island. The hawk's habitat is varied and includes native forest, where you can sometimes find the endangered 'iliahi (sandalwood tree). Highly valued by the ali'i for its fragrant wood and as a trade commodity, it was among the first native species to be extracted for their commercial value following contact with the outside world. Today, the ‘io and the ‘iliahi are endangered species, but their histories both hold valuable lessons that underscore the importance of conservation efforts to protect the rich biodiversity and cultural history of Hawai’i.

The Kiwikiu, or Maui Parrotbill, is a critically endangered bird native to the high-elevation forests of Maui. The Kiwikiu forages on tree trunks, branches, and fruit for insects, thus helping to control insect populations and promote forest health. The Kiwikiu is severely threatened by mosquitoes, which transmit avian malaria and avian pox, diseases to which the bird has little natural immunity. As climate change causes temperatures to rise, mosquitoes are migrating up into higher elevations. The resulting heightened exposure to disease transmission has signi cantly contributed to the decline in Kiwikiu populations, making their conservation even more urgent.The Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project, The Nature Conservancy, and Birds, Not Mosquitoes are some of the agencies urgently working to protect these and other native Hawaiian honeycreepers from extinction. To learn more about how you can help, visit:www.birdsnotmosquitoes.org.

The ʻAkikiki, a critically endangered honeycreeper native to the island of Kauaʻi, is currently one of the world's most endangered bird species. Known for its distinctive, soft call and delicate appearance, the ʻAkikiki is sadly down to only a handful of individuals as of this writing. As an insectivorous bird, it plays a vital role in controlling insect populations, contributing to the health and stability of its forest habitat. Its precipitous decline is being caused by mosquitoes, which transmit avian malaria and avian pox (diseases to which the bird has little to no natural immunity). As climate change causes temperatures to rise, mosquitoes are migrating up higher in elevation.

On Kaua’i, this means mosquitoes are moving into the little remaining habitat left to these and other critically endangered honeycreepers. The resulting heightened exposure to disease transmission has significantly contributed to the decline in ʻAkikiki populations, making their conservation even more urgent. The Kaua’i Forest Bird Recovery Project and Birds, Not Mosquitoes are some of the multiple agencies urgently working to protect these and other native Hawaiian honeycreepers from extinction.

The Hawaiian Pueo, also known as the Hawaiian Short-eared Owl or Asio flammeus sandwichensis, holds both environmental and cultural significance across the Hawaiian islands. The majestic and elusive owl is respected as an ‘aumakua or family guardian spirit by native Hawaiians. In mo’olelo (traditional stories), the Pueo is believed to embody the spirits of deceased ancestors and is considered a protector. It’s presence is thought to bring guidance and warnings to those who encounter it.

Ecologically the Pueo plays an important role, praying on rodents and other small animals that can become pests. Unfortunately, habitat loss, introduced predators, and vehicular collisions threaten the Pueo population. Collaborative initiative between local communities, scientist, and government agencies aim to preserve the Pueo for future generations. The Pueo serves as a powerful symbol of the interconnectedness between the natural world and the Hawaiian culture, emphasizing the importance of preserving both for future generations.

He‘e (octopus) means to flee, slide, or melt. In Hawaiian mythology, they are the kinolau (physical manifestation) of Kanaloa, the god of the ocean. He’e are highly intelligent creatures.

They are shapeshifters, masters of camouflage and the quick get-away when needed. Since he‘e have no bones or armor, they are on the one hand vulnerable to predators. They use this trait to their advantage. Being flexible, they can squeeze through very narrow spaces to hide and escape. They also have black ink that they jet out when throwing off a chasing predator. They hunt and feed on snails, small fish and crustaceans, especially at night. He’e are tricksters who know how to survive on the coral reef.

The he‘e in this print are pictured with Kole tangs (Ctenochaetus strigosus), a Hawaiian endemic fish. The he‘e are hard to spot, camouflaged with their coral backdrop, an apt reminder that things are not always what they at first seem.

Ko’a or cauliflower coral (Pocillopora meandrina) form coral reefs (pūkoʻa) throughout the Indo-Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most abundant coral species throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

These reef-building corals provide shelter and habitat to many species and protect shorelines from storm surges and big wave events. They are responsible for the formation of many of our favorite surf breaks. Coral are living animals that have a photosynthetic relationship with algae.

These coral colonies have created reefs and atolls throughout the tropics. Sensitive to changes in temperature and light levels, coral polyps are particularly vulnerable to pollution and climate change.

Despite these pressures, coral represents a solid and resilient foundation in a sea of change.

Limu is a Hawaiian word descriptive of mosses, lichens, seaweed, and algae. Kala means sharp, which describes the sharp spines on the blades of the algae. Kala also means to loosen, free, and forgive.

Limu kala (Sargassum sp.) is an edible Hawaiian seaweed that exists in high wave energy intertidal zones, commonly found in tide pools.

Limu kala has traditional medicinal uses. When recovering from an illness, a lei of limu kala is worn into the ocean. It would drift apart and in doing so, take with it any remaining illness from

the wearer. In addition, pounded limu kala is made into a poultice that is used to treat coral cuts and gashes.

Limu kala is uniquely important in Hawai'i for its use in ho'oponopono, a traditional reconciliation ceremony for divided families that roughly translated means “to make right.” In ho'oponopono, an extended family usually comes together to set relationships right. Eating limu kala marks the resolution of the problem, symbolizing forgiveness and the release of past wrongs.

Puhi (eels) are one of the most abundant and diverse coral reef fish. With around 42 indigenous species, the Hawaiian Islands host a quarter of all the puhi species found in the world. They live in holes in the coral reef, coming out to prey on small fish, crabs, and octopus, especially at night.

The Hawaiian language has so many variations of puhi that their importance and distinctions are clearly apparent. They also play a part in many Hawaiian legends. Some puhi are also considered to be ‘aumakua (spiritual guardians). 

Many Hawaiian legends tell the stories of Kamapua‘a, a kolohe (mischievous) pig kupua (demi-god) who takes on many forms at will, one moment a handsome man, the next a pua‘a (pig) or an ‘ama‘u tree fern. Masculine, bold, untamed, sensual.

In folklore, he was always successful against all odds at whatever he set his mind to achieve. Associated with Makahiki season, agriculture, and fruitfulness. He is best known for his tempestuous and fiery relationship with the volcano goddess Pele. His adventurous spirit represents some of the best and worst of us. This print represents two of his kinolau (physical manifestations).

"Pua ka wiliwili, nanahu ka manō."
When the wiliwili tree flowers, the shark bites.
‘Olelo No‘eau (Hawaiian Proverb), Mary Kawena Pukui

Shark bites, though rare, have been documented to occur more in the Hawaiian islands during the fall, coinciding with the flowering of the wiliwili tree depicted in this hand-drawn artwork as well as the mating season for tiger sharks. This print is inspired by this astute Hawaiian observation of the interconnectedness of nature's patterns.

Wiliwili (Erythrina sandwicensis) is a native Hawaiian flowering tree. Wiliwili, means "twist-twist," referring to the twisting shape of the seedpods. Its lightweight wood was once favored for making surfboards (papa he‘e nalu) and its bright red bean-like seeds for making lei.

The trees lose their leaves during the dry summer season. At the end of summer, they burst into bloom. Different trees have different colored flowers: ranging from very pale yellow, to orange, to crimson red. Found on the dry and windy leeward sides of the islands, groves of these trees are clustered across the open landscape. Normally hard to spot except when they bloom. Their colorful flowers catch your breath and can be seen from a great distance. This print is a reminder of the interconnectedness of the cycles of nature and of the wisdom embedded in these enticing flowers: watch for sharks.

On the Kalaupapa peninsula on the island of Moloka‘i, I was inspired by the living tapestry of native Hawaiian plants hugging the coastal jet black lava rock in swatches of bright silvery greens.

After graduating from UH Manoa I jumped at the opportunity to temporarily run a native plant nursery for the National Park Service in Kalaupapa, Moloka‘i. I’ll never forget my first glimpse through the little prop plane window: impassable sea cliffs sealing off a picturesque town set on a small remote peninsula. I’d learn that its harsh enduring beauty was matched in character by its inhabitants: caretakers and a handful of cured Hansen’s disease (leprosy) patients living out their old age. The remainder of its inhabitants care for the place: its historical buildings and its endemic endangered ecosystem.

I created this design as a lasting testament to the beauty of not only its native Hawaiian landscape, but also its history of human endurance and compassion in the face of daunting circumstances. This place and design are a reminder that beauty arises out of contrast and that depth is born from meaning. The central element to this design is the white Puakala native Hawaiian poppy flower. A thorny flower that thrives among the windswept lava rock and sea spray of the Kalaupapa peninsula.

Coconut or Niu has a Hawaiian saying or ʻōlelo noʻeau, 'Ka wai lewa i ka makani' or 'The water which sways in the breeze.' Water is often symbolic of wealth, and the heavens, the region above, here provides blessings.

This print tells the life cycle or the genealogy of the coconut palm and it's fruit. Like a series of Russian dolls, each of us contains within us the multitudes of both our ancestors and the seed and nourishment for future generations. Similarly, the coconut contains within it multitudes. The coconut provides nourishment of both people and of the embryo within the coconut. The fruit is capable of withstanding long ocean voyages as it protects future generations within its husk. It is central to pacific cultures, allowing them to voyage and prosper.

The Hawaiian crow, ‘Alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis), is a critically endangered endemic bird no longer found in the wild. They were once common throughout the Hawaiian islands. Highly intelligent and vocal, they are named after their vocalization that sounds like the cry of a child.

‘Alalā was an important seed disperser of Hō‘awa (Pittosporum sp.), a beautiful native shrub with tiny clusters of creamy-white flowers, small orange fruit pods that split open to reveal jet-black seeds inside. Lacking this important seed dispersing bird, several species of Hō'awa have become endangered themselves.

The ‘Alalā Project is a partnership between several organizations which seek to bring these birds back to the wild through a captive breeding program. A portion of the proceeds from this print will go to one of the organizations involved in this program, the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project, which houses many of these birds.

“Hawaiian forests are family; there is a shared ancestry among the people, plants, animals, and landscapes, including species like the ‘Alalā. By returning the ‘Alalā to the wild, we are welcoming home a family member that has been away for a long time and fulfilling our reciprocal responsibilities as stewards and ancestors of this land.” - The ʻAlalā Project

Kaniakapūpū means “the singing of the land shells” in Hawaiian. Featured in this print are kāhuli snails, ’ōhi’a lehua bursting into flower, and nectar feeding i’iwi birds. This print has layers of meaning, or ‘kauna’: The songs of the snails bring Hawai’i into being.

Kaniakapūpū is the name of the summer palace of Kamehameha III who said in 1843, ‘ua mau ke ea o ka ’aina i ka pono’ or ‘the life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.’ The Hawai’i state motto to this day.

“Kāhuli (tree snails) are attributed with song and are featured in oli, mele, and mo’olelo. They are considered hō’ailona (omens or signs) when encountered in the forest. Their colorful forms adorn plants and people alike, as their shells were used in lei. Unfortunately, they are under threat of extinction by the appetites of introduced invasive predators. Hawai’i’s Snail Extinction Prevention Program and their partners are rearing Kāhuli for reintroduction and are protecting their habitats.“

- David Sischo, Ph.D. Snail Extinction Prevention Program Coordinator.

A portion of proceeds from this purchase will go towards the Snail Extinction Prevention Program.

A past Hawai’i echoes with visions of a future one. Manu-o-kū birds soar, nest, and fish amongst the coastal flowering Hawaiian hau trees. The hau flowers last only a single day each, going from yellow at dawn to orange and red as the day ends.

The manu-o-kū, also known as the white tern, holds deep cultural and ecological significance to Hawai’i. When seen out at sea, these graceful birds are natural indicators to seafarers that land is near. Like fI Sherman, they go out to sea in the mornings to fish and return to shore in the evenings.

Once rare in Hawai’i, except in the remote northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Their comeback once the 1970s in urban Honolulu is a testament to dedicated community conservation efforts, while echoing the timeline of the Hawaiian cultural renaissance. Honolulu has implemented measures to protect the trees where they are actively nesting from disturbance, marking them with a blue ribbon around the trunks.

From the beaches of Waikīkī to the lush forests of upper Mānoa valley, this design embodies the range of resources found within this powerful, prosperous, and beautiful ahupua‘a. An ahupua‘a is a traditional land division that encompasses a watershed extending from ma uka to ma kai (mountain to ocean). Traditionally in Hawai‘i, community boundaries were defined by watersheds that provided all the resources for sustainable living: fish, agriculture, consistent fresh water, and upland forests reserves. Wise management fostered a thriving community.

Today the ahupua‘a of Waikīkī continues to be one of the most abundant and prosperous. This design highlights abundance, displays the importance of balance, and shows the beauty of diversity in the form of contrast. Featured is a sort of yin yang play between the native Hāpuʻu tree fern found in the mountains and the O‘ahu island flower ‘ilima found growing on the coast.

Lau hala, the Hawaiian word for the leaf of the hala tree (Pandanus tectorius), has been central to Polynesian and Hawaiian culture since time immemorial. Lau hala weaving, like all art, requires patience and practice. The leaves undergo a lengthy process of preparation to make them into dried pliable. Skillful mastery of technique is needed to use lau hala to make a wide array of objects. The hala mat is the most well known product of lau hala weaving, symbolic of the home and its comforts. Hats, baskets, bracelets, and much more can be made from lau hala. Although lau hala weaving is a practical art, its artist’s finest creations are truly embodiments of the love of art itself.